A TEENAGE piper will be supporting his family as they walk a six mile route in aid of Contact the Elderly.

Murray O’ May, of Kippen, will also officially launch the Kiltwalk’s ‘Wee Wander’ before he embarks on the challenge.

The Balfron High School pupil will be joined by his mum Morna O’ May, who heads up Contact the Elderly in Scotland, dad Malcolm, nine-year-old brother Gregor and Molly the spaniel.

Murray, 13, has been the charity’s piper for four years and plays at special events and group launches and plays with the People’s Ford Boghall and Bathgate Caledonia’ Novice Pipe Band.

He said: "I am really looking forward to doing the Kiltwalk. I hope everyone enjoys the pipes and it helps add to the fun atmosphere.

"I enjoy being the piper for Contact the Elderly. It’s a good charity and it’s good to meet all the guests and volunteers."

Contact the Elderly hopes to sign up more Kiltwalkers in the coming weeks for the events taking place in Dundee and Edinburgh.

Morna said: "I am very proud of Murray’s piping and delighted he will be playing as we face this challenge.

"It’s going to be a great family day out, enjoying a walk while raising funds and awareness for Contact the Elderly.

"I hope we can encourage more people looking for something different to do on a weekend to consider taking part in the Kiltwalk for Contact the Elderly.

"We always say to our volunteers that a small amount of time can make an immeasurable difference. The same goes for fundraising."

Contact the Elderly has 126 tea party groups across Scotland.

Its free monthly Sunday afternoon outings provide older people who live alone a vital lifeline of friendship.

Guests are collected by volunteer drivers who accompany them to an afternoon of baking and a blether in a volunteer host’s home.

To find out more about doing the Kiltwalk in aid of Contact the Elderly in Dundee on August, 20 or Edinburgh on September, 17 visit www.thekiltwalk.co.uk.

To find out more about becoming a volunteer or guest of Contact the Elderly, visit www.contact-the-elderly.org.uk